ISDM | Published: 04 March, 2024

Introduction:

In the modern era, which is in a constant state of flux, societal concerns are growing more complex. This constant shift puts us in the dilemma of having to navigate through this uncertain terrain and build a better future. Social entrepreneurship blends creativity and business with a deep desire to tackle various social and environmental issues. But this is rarely a rose-covered route. It takes a combination of social awareness, business acumen, and a steadfast commitment to make a difference in the world to effectively navigate the maze that is social entrepreneurship management.

What is Social Entrepreneurship:

Social entrepreneurship is prioritizing social impact over financial gain; they deal with pressing social and environmental problems like pollution and poverty. Thus, social entrepreneurs put the creation of social value ahead of maximising earnings, in stark contrast to conventional entrepreneurship. They create innovative solutions that tackle the underlying societal issues, resulting in an enduring influence along with long-lasting transformation.

What is the role of Social Entrepreneurs and what is the key to its success?

Social entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in the advancement of positive social change because they tackle the most significant issues the world is currently facing. The success and sustainability of any social entrepreneurship venture depend on its effective management. Recognising this, the Indian School of Development Management (ISDM)’s Post Graduate Programme in Development Management (PGP DM) equips social entrepreneurs like you with the management skills and mindset needed to successfully navigate the intricacies of the social sector while maintaining financial sustainability, enabling you to fulfil your missions. In addition to a wide range of tasks like effect assessment, resource mobilisation, and strategy planning, social entrepreneurship management also includes organisational leadership and stakeholder involvement. The program integrates management theories with practical projects, mentorship programs, and interactions with industry leaders to foster a supportive system where you can hone your management skills to drive meaningful impact in society.

Are there any challenges in Social Entrepreneurship Management?

While there is immense potential for creating change in society through social entrepreneurship, the path is not clear of thorns. Common challenges for entrepreneurs include resistance to innovation, scalability issues, regulatory barriers, and limited access to funding. These are further exacerbated by management challenges such as measuring the social impact and balancing financial stability. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel; ISDM’s PGP DM course prepares you to face these challenges through creativity, resilience, and a collaborative approach with mentorship from successful entrepreneurs in the domain of leading social enterprises like NASHAURA, Khalsen Homestay, HUManity, etc.

What are the opportunities for my growth?

Despite these obstacles, the sector of social entrepreneurship offers a number of chances for development and innovation. Growing awareness of the significance of social effects, along with the growth of impact investment and corporate social responsibility (CSR), has opened up new channels for funding and cooperation. The PGP DM program serves as a catalyst, blending profit-driven businesses with social impact. An increase in acknowledgement by stakeholders and government bodies also plays a pivotal role in encouraging social entrepreneurs like you to effect positive change in society.

How do I develop the mindset of a social entrepreneur?

The entrepreneurial attitude, which includes qualities like ingenuity, resilience, and an unrelenting commitment to generating good progress, is the cornerstone of social entrepreneurship management. An entrepreneurial attitude is cultivated during PGP DM by accepting ambiguity, taking measured chances, and embracing failure as a learning opportunity. Social entrepreneurs can thus navigate the complexities of social entrepreneurship management and drive meaningful impact.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, a crucial role is played by social entrepreneurship management in driving social change which is sustainable and financially feasible, by combining the commitment to address societal issues with principles of entrepreneurship. By embracing creativity, resilience, and teamwork, you may create scalable and significant solutions to address the underlying causes of a number of social and environmental crises. By empowering you with the skills to manage and lead such change and foster an entrepreneurial mindset in you, ISDM’s PGP DM course will help you build a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.

If I can stop one heart from breaking
I shall not live in vain
- Emily Dickinson

The poignant words of Emily Dickinson echo a sentiment that resonates deeply within the hearts of those working in the social sector: the profound impact of even the smallest act of compassion or support. In her verse, Dickinson captures the essence of the purpose driving individuals in the social sector – to alleviate suffering, to bring sustainable social change, and to empower communities.

The social sector is a dynamic realm comprising various organisations and initiatives dedicated to addressing societal needs and promoting positive change. It's where people's passion for helping meets their purpose to make a difference.

As we talk about how the social sector helps people, think about how you could join in and make a positive impact too. To help you figure this out, this article dives into the many ways the social sector shapes a kinder world.

Understanding the Social Sector

The social sector, also known as the social development sector, is like a big family of groups that want to do good for society. You've got nonprofits, charities, and SPOs/NGOs – they're all in it to make the world a better place.

While businesses are not usually a part of the social sector, some play a crucial role through CSRs. CSR stands for Corporate Social Responsibility. It's like a company's way of giving back to the community and being a good neighbour.

Instead of just focusing on making money, companies with CSR programs also think about how they can help people and the planet. They might donate money to charities, volunteer their time for good causes, or make sure their products are made in environmentally friendly ways.

And while governments aren't usually part of the social sector, they sometimes lend a hand with rewards or incentives. It's all about teamwork to create positive change and make the world a better, fairer place for everyone.

Therefore, from providing essential services to advocating for social justice and systemic change, the social sector plays a pivotal role in nurturing a more compassionate society.

Let’s dive deeper into understanding key initiatives taken by the social development sector.

Key Initiatives in the Social Sector

The aim of the social development sector is to foster enduring social transformation by encouraging socially responsible practices. Its key initiatives cover diverse areas including health, education, poverty alleviation, agriculture, science and technology, environment, disaster management, energy conservation, women's empowerment, skill development, social welfare, and the list goes on.

In this, education is crucial for social development, empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive.

As Nelson Mandela wisely said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." That's why educational programs in the social sector work hard to make sure everyone, especially underserved communities, can access quality education.

But education isn't just about reading and maths anymore. It's also about learning social, emotional, and ethical skills. These skills help young minds to understand and manage their emotions, relate to others, and be kind and compassionate members of society. So, the social sector is also focused on teaching foundational skills that include not only academic subjects but also critical thinking, teamwork, compassion, empathy, and creativity.

Similarly, healthcare initiatives work to improve health and wellness through innovative approaches and community-based care. While poverty alleviation projects tackle the underlying causes of economic hardship, offering resources and support for sustainable livelihoods.

Challenges Faced by the Social Sector

As per research, India's social sector is massive, with 3.3 million non-profit institutions (NPIs) providing jobs for over 18.22 million people¹. These organisations receive support from various sources like funders, enabling organisations, the government, angel investors and businesses. Despite its size and activity, the Indian development sector grapples with numerous challenges that hinder its ability to effect lasting change. Such as, funding limitations pose a significant barrier, constraining the sector's capacity to scale up interventions and reach more beneficiaries.

Other than this, as the sector is growing, it sees professionalisation and bureaucratisation of its system. However, there's not enough agreement on what roles should be or how much people should get paid. Just wanting to help isn't enough; people need to feel financially secure too.

Not only this, lack of innovation is a huge challenge in the sector. In any field, like health or education, trying new stuff is key to moving forward. But in the social sector, most money goes to projects that already work, leaving little room for new ideas. However, embracing new ways of doing things could really change the game as technological advancements have revolutionised the way social interventions are designed and implemented, opening up new avenues for impact and scalability.

¹Source: Typology of organisations in the Indian Social Sector (ashoka.edu.in)

Also, breaking down big barriers, like discrimination and inequality, needs lots of teamwork and advocacy from different areas. That's why development management in this sector is crucial.

For all of this, we need smart, passionate people to join the social sector. So, finding ways to attract the best talent is important.

Getting Involved in the Social Sector

You have plenty of ways to make a difference in the social sector. You can volunteer, donate, join advocacy groups, or even pursue a career in social development. Volunteering lets you directly impact others, while donations provide vital financial support. Advocacy amplifies the call for justice and equality, sparking change in communities and beyond. But wait, there's more! Now, you can also build a fulfilling career in the social sector, combining financial stability with a sense of purpose all due to expanding its operations.

Here’s why the social sector is your next place to be!

In the social sector, diversity and a systemic approach are key to success. Ingrid Srinath, director of the Center for Social Impact and Philanthropy at Ashoka University, emphasises this. She shares a case from an organisation CRY, where a strategic pause in fundraising led to a whopping 500% revenue growth in a decade . This shift involved adopting business strategies like outsourcing and telemarketing, along with tech innovations. It required collaboration among teams, guided by shared values and democratic decision-making. It shows how a systemic, inclusive approach advocated by development management brings big positive changes in the social sector.

Unfortunately, the social sector is facing a serious shortage of qualified development managers. To tackle this shortage, a team of experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds established ISDM (Indian School of Development Management), India's first institute dedicated solely to development management.

²Source: Does India's Social Sector Need Better Management (isdm.org.in)

ISDM’s flagship program, the Post Graduate Program (PGP) in Development Management, aims to professionalise leadership and management in social purpose organisations (SPOs). This program fills the gap between the demand for skilled managers in the social sector and the lack of relevant training.

The program caters to a diverse set of students from various walks of life be it being a working professional or a recent graduate from any stream. The diversity of this program only adds to its experience. Hear from our alumna about her experience at the program.

Let's explore how this course can transform the careers of aspiring social sector professionals.

The PGP-DM Program at ISDM

The Post Graduate Programme in Development Management (PGP-DM) at ISDM is an 11-month long course. It includes 75+ global faculty members to provide you with the best of the best! It also has more than 300 placement partners with 100% placement assistance to help you score a high package of more than 16 LPA!

Designed by experts, the program combines development and management learnings. The program presents its students with advanced in-class sessions, group projects, and practical field immersion— all of it for a holistic approach to student’s academic, personal, and professional growth. We teach our students to effectively plan interventions, build, lead, and manage organisations. It prepares you for your career through tests and evaluations such as classroom attendance and participation, individual and group assignments, tests and quizzes, and end-term exams. Not only this but to support you take steps at your own pace, the PGP-DM program at ISDM also provides faculty and bricoleur support!

Here’s our alumnus of the program sharing their transformative journeys, highlighting how ISDM provided a diverse and inclusive environment for learning and growth. Take a look!

Through rigorous academic training, experiential learning, and real-world exposure, and a robust alumni network, ISDM empowers its students to become effective change agents capable of making a meaningful difference in the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the social sector serves as a powerful force for good in our world, driving initiatives that promote compassion, empathy, and social justice. By working collaboratively across sectors and harnessing the power of innovation, the social sector has the potential to effect transformative change and build a more inclusive and compassionate society. As individuals and businesses, we each have a role to play in advancing the values of compassion and solidarity, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come. Through institutions like ISDM and its PGP-DM program, we can cultivate the next generation of development leaders who will continue to champion the cause of social change and make a lasting impact on the world.

Introduction:

The urge to find meaning and purpose in one's work has led to a significant shift in societal priorities in recent times, with an increasing number of individuals attempting to match their employment with social issues. The social development sector has grown significantly because of this increase in interest, as illustrated by the budget's substantial increase, which for 2023–24 in India alone reached an astounding Rs 8.28 lakh crore ($100.77 billion). The absence of efficient management in the development sector, however, remains a significant obstacle in the face of this growth.

To confront this challenge head-on, the social sector requires a paradigm shift towards development management—an approach geared towards enhancing societal growth and fostering economic and social freedom. Unlike traditional corporate management, development management transcends individual projects, focusing instead on implementing process-based systems to drive innovation and eliminate stagnation in public service delivery. To address this demand, a group of seasoned professionals from various backgrounds joined forces to found the Indian School of Development Management (ISDM), India's first institution devoted exclusively to the study of development management. Understanding how important it is to professionalise management and leadership in Social Purpose Organisations (SPOs), ISDM launched the Post Graduate Programme (PGP) in Development Management to give prospective changemakers the tools they need to successfully negotiate the intricacies of the social sector.

What is the Indian Social Sector?

The social sector in India is evidence of the country's tenacity and development in the seven decades since independence. India has progressed significantly from its disadvantaged initial stages, which were characterized by extreme poverty, a shockingly high proportion of illiteracy, and poor infrastructure. Today, the country is transformed, with an increase in life expectancy, and literacy rate with a continuing decline in poverty as per various UN reports. The active participation of India's social sector has been essential to this journey. It has championed progressive reforms such as the Right to Information and Right to Education, and has contributed to the formulation of a forward-thinking Constitution encapsulated beautifully in its preamble.

However, the path to social development in India presents unique challenges that defy conventional business management approaches that go beyond mere economic considerations. It includes understanding and negotiating the complicated network of community and cultural norms, societal dynamics, and difficult issues relating to livelihoods, health, education, and other facets of life. When it comes to social well-being, conventional measures like Return on Investments (ROI) have a distinct meaning. A rising number of practitioners and stakeholders are in favour of Development Management being recognised as a separate discipline in acknowledging the necessity for a specialised approach to governance in the social sector. The Indian School of Development Management (ISDM) has risen to bridge this crucial void, offering a fieldwork experience for prospective transformators to obtain the essential abilities, and understanding to manoeuvre through the intricacies of the social domain.

Why should I look forward to Development Management Skills?

The field of Development Management offers a unique array of opportunities for you within the social sector, dispelling the misconception that it lacks job prospects. With a surge in funding driven by increased philanthropy and CSR mandates, there is a growing demand for specialised talent. Beyond mere remuneration, the Social Sector offers profound job satisfaction and a sense of purpose, particularly in an era where meaningful work and work-life balance are paramount. Though there exists the program of Masters in Social Work it differs significantly from PGP DM.

The Development Management program ensures you are equipped with the skills and networks necessary to secure jobs aligned with your values, empowering you to make a tangible impact on society. The program uniquely integrates management concepts such as design thinking and financial perspectives with social sector requisites like ethics and sustainability, producing authentic development of professionals with both managerial prowess and a deep commitment to social causes.

Learning from sector pioneers is invaluable in mastering management within the social sector. The program offers a dynamic educational journey where you get the opportunity to hone your analytic and collaboration abilities through a variety of projects, workshops, and rural immersions. This multi pronged strategy guarantees that graduates are prepared to take on the challenges of the social sector.

The program is inclusive, welcoming both seasoned professionals and freshers. While recommending two years of work experience, it also values volunteering experience with NGOs, making it accessible to a broader audience. Open to professionals from diverse backgrounds, the program accommodates a spectrum of skills, shedding light on leveraging existing knowledge for effective contributions to the Social Sector.

PGP-DM What is it?

The Post Graduate Programme in Development Management (PGP DM) at ISDM is an ideal foundation for an exciting and revolutionary journey into the field of social impact and development management. Our curriculum, which has been painstakingly created by eminent academics and professionals, strives to empower you to become dedicated, influential professionals who can successfully negotiate the challenges of the social sector. Let us explore in more detail the unmatched advantages that await you on this enlightening educational journey.

What Benefits Do I Get?

ISDM's PGP-DM program provides a wealth of unmatched advantages, transforming students into skilled leaders equipped to address the intricate problems facing the social sector:

1. Strengthening the Foundation of the Social Sector: Our program goes above and beyond personal development, building professionals who can lead long-term change and strengthening the core of the social sector.
2. Developing On-the-Ground Understanding: We make sure that you have a deep understanding of social sector organisation management through immersive learning approaches, equipping you for issues you will face in the real world.
3. Encouraging Mentorship: Our unique Mentorship Program will pair you with business executives, offering priceless advice and mentorship to help you successfully navigate their career path.
4. Holistic Learning: At ISDM, we take a holistic approach to education, making sure that you get practical insights from interactions with thought leaders and hands-on experiences in addition to theoretical concepts.
5. Context-Based Collaborative Learning: We give context-based learning a lot of weight since it enables you as a student to develop durable solutions that are specially tailored to the unique issues the social sector faces.